: : I HAVE OA IN BOTH THUMBS. MY DR. RECOMMENDED: SURGERY AS THE ONLY SOLUTION SINCE I HAVE NO: CARTILEGE LEFT. DOES ANYONE HAVE THIS PROBLEM: AND IF SO -- ANY SOLUTIONS OTHER THAN SURGERY?

Hi Jenette:I have osteoarthritis of the Rt thumb. Thereare other options besides surgery. Have you seen a hand physical therapist? My physician who is a handsurgeon, ordered a splint and PT. The PT made me a splint, which was custom designed to my hand, and gives the joints a chance to rest, by imobilizing them. There is also a new anti-inflammatory medication called Celebrex, which has really helped. It is a prescription anti-inflammatory, without the side effects of stomach upset or ulcer. I have had much success with this.My surgeon said that surgery should be the last option, as it involves joint replacement, and is quite a big procedure, with not always a great result.If you opt for surgery, be sure your MD is a Board Certified Orthopaedic surgeon with a specialty in hand surgery.Good Luck!